Baby Teeth
Author: Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Ah, that baby smile. At first, it is all gums. Then, one day you may notice a little bit of white on the bottom or top of that gummy smile. Welcome to teething!
Although your baby's first set of teeth are nearly formed at birth, you most likely won't see them until around the age of seven months.
Generally, the two bottom teeth appear first, and then, the two front top teeth.
Around a year, the first set of molars may appear (both top and bottom). Canine, or eyeteeth, will be next, followed then by the second set of molars, which come through between the second and third birthdays.
From nothing but gums to a mouth full of teeth!
What should you expect during the teething process? Ask someone about his or her experience. Then, ask someone else. Chances are you will get an earful and several different stories.
During my baby's 6-month check-up, I was handed an information sheet about children and their teeth. Of note was a statement about the many misconceptions people have regarding teething. The bottom line of this sheet included that many babies have no symptoms or differing behaviors when their teeth are coming through the gums. I left that day feeling optimistic about the process.
Fast forward a couple of months and I was back in the pediatrician's office for a visit. My munchkin wasn't quite right. An ear infection, perhaps? After checking the ears and other vitals, my pediatrician confirmed that my baby was fine. "Fine?" I questioned. "Perhaps it is teething," she said. "But that article you gave me…" I stammered. "Oh, that was the medical statement. As a mom, this looks like teething symptoms to me!" she laughed.
And there you have it.
Everyone has a different story, even the pediatrician.
Symptoms some babies may experience while teething include:
- Excess drooling (which may sometimes create a rash on baby's chin)
- Biting or chewing on hands or toys
- Waking up at night and/or general fussiness
- Gums of the mouth appear to be bulging (you can actually see that a tooth is about to appear)
How to cope?
- Offer up something cold - i.e. chilled teething ring, foods such as a frozen bagel or banana, or Popsicles (look for 100% fruit vs. sugary sweet).
- Always ask your pediatrician, but some may recommend an appropriate dose of pain reliever.
- There is also a multitude of oral gels or pastes that are safe for babies (again, always check in with your pediatrician before using such products).
- And remember, this too shall pass.
